Rugby has one foot in the RSL-Whitney Cup grand final after yet another fantastic display of hitting from Ben Patterson put his side in a commanding position against RSL-Colts.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Patterson, fresh from a century in the McDonald’s Megahit semi-final on Friday night, pummelled 120 as Rugby piled on 8/333 against a Colts outfit which needs to win next week to be certain of a place in the finals.
Patterson’s century continued a stellar season with the willow and the leading all-rounder said a change to a more simple approach has helped him find top form.
“I’ve got a clearer mindset than the start of the season,” he said, Saturday’s knock featuring some of the cleanest hitting seen in Dubbo in some time.
I’m playing my natural game no matter the format.
- Ben Patterson
“I’m playing my natural game no matter the format.
“I think I was too focused on making something happen and manipulating all 360 degrees of the field rather than sticking to my power and picking out fielders I know I can beat.”
While Patterson starred, there was plenty of support.
Rugby slumped to 3/32 early on with Tim Cox removing both Ben Wheeler (0) and Jordan Moran (17).
Patterson then dominated a 144-run fourth-wicket partnership with James O’Brien (38) before they both fell in quick succession.
Patterson hit 11 fours and seven fours in his century.
“When I walked out I just and said ‘hey mate’ (to O’Brien) and said if we work hard something good will happen,” he said.
“In between overs we talked about everything but cricket, except when there was some good bowling, and just focused on executing our plans. We kept it basic.”
The scoring didn’t falter once Patterson departed with Aidan Bennewith making a crucial 68 while Ben Taylor hit a quickfire 26 not out late on.
“It showed some character from everyone who batted,” Patterson said.
“We’re not just relying on Jordan or Nath. It was myself and ‘Benny’ (Bennewith) on Saturday and we’ve all come together and we keep trying to play that perfect game.
“Now we’re looking to perform with the ball.”
Rugby spoke about finishing minor premiers and advancing through to the grand final prior to last round’s match against Newtown. While they fell just short of an outright win in that match, Rugby still headed into the final round of the regular season one point clear at the summit.
“This time we just wanted to win, send a message, and win well,” Patterson said.
“It would be incredibly pleasing (to beat Colts). They’ve had it over us a couple of times and we’ve developed a real rivalry so it would be nice to go into a grand final with a win.”
Cox finished with 2/51 from 11 overs while Darrel Williams took 2/76 from 18.
With fourth-placed Macquarie dominating CYMS next door at No. 3 and having already sealed a double bonus point first innings win, Colts need a win next weekend to be guaranteed a place in the finals.
Nick Guthrie
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
